MA Film Making

Why choose this course?

This film making MA course will enable you to develop film production skills with digital equipment as well as knowledge of the theories of contemporary cinema. The focus is placed firmly on developing clear and simple storytelling techniques that go beyond arbitrary formal categorisations of drama, documentary or genre. The course takes its inspiration from forms of cultural production that have challenged conformity, including the work of artists, musicians, painters and performers, and the movements of Italian neo-realism and the cinemas of Africa, Latin America, South East Asia and the Middle East. You'll be encouraged to synthesise your personal experience, critical knowledge and craft skills to express yourself through moving pictures and be taught film making theory and practice together through practical workshops. The course is informed by practice and research in neo-realist cinema, visual storytelling, participative documentary and underground cinema.

What you will study

At the heart of the course is an emphasis on developing visual storytelling and vivid characters through script development. You will be able to use high-definition 4K digital cinema cameras, DSLRs and Macs running Adobe Premier and Creative Cloud to apply classical and independent principles with contemporary technology. The course focuses on the collaborative nature of the film making process and sharing stories from communities outside the mainstream. You'll be expected to complete 180 credits across five modules, including a film making dissertation.

Teaching and assessment

Assessment typically comprises short films with accompanying critical analysis essays and screenplays, film projects, production portfolios, critical analysis essays, and presentations.

After you graduate

This film making MA will equip you for lifelong film making and learning. It prepares you with techniques to sustain a film making practice beyond university for: employment within the film industry or as an independent film maker and further study.